Low-power 12-bit superconducting analog-to-digital converter for cryogenic focal plane array readouts

Sergey V. Rylov; R. P. Robertazzi

doi:10.1117/12.243530

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26 June 1996 Low-power 12-bit superconducting analog-to-digital converter for cryogenic focal plane array readouts

Sergey V. Rylov, R. P. Robertazzi

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Proceedings Volume 2745, Infrared Readout Electronics III; (1996) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.243530
Event: Aerospace/Defense Sensing and Controls, 1996, Orlando, FL, United States

Abstract

Superconducting Analog-to-Digital Converters (ADCs) are attractive for use on cryogenic focal plane arrays because of their ultra-low power consumption and their ability to operate at cryogenic temperatures. We have developed a 12 bit ADC based on Nb thin film superconducting integrated circuit technology which dissipates less than 0.44 mW while in operation at 4.2 K. Extensions of this deign to lower junction critical currents would allow the production of an ADC which dissipates less than 0.1 mW when fully biased. The ADC had at least 9.75 effective bits of resolution for 20 kHz input signals, limited by the harmonic distortions of the signal source. We estimate that the ultimate resolution of this ADC can be greater than 20 bits at 10 MHz bandwidth with our current 2.5 micron fabrication process. Potential applications for this device include focal plane array read out electronics for low temperature (4.2 K and below) imaging arrays, such as those being used on the SIRTF mission being planned by NASA. Other applications include high precision instrumentation for metrology uses.

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Sergey V. Rylov and R. P. Robertazzi "Low-power 12-bit superconducting analog-to-digital converter for cryogenic focal plane array readouts", Proc. SPIE 2745, Infrared Readout Electronics III, (26 June 1996); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.243530

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